Former CNN reporter Michelle Kosinski reflected on a haunting experience she had while attending a dinner party that continues to trouble her. At the gathering, Kosinski found herself among a group of individuals who appeared well-educated and successful. Initially, the atmosphere was pleasant, but as the evening progressed and drinks were shared, the true political leanings of the group began to surface, revealing strong support for former President Donald Trump.
Kosinski described the slow revelation of the group’s MAGA-aligned views, noting how some attendees discussed their decisions against allowing their children to apply to Ivy League universities, though they were vague about their reasons. Discussions around climate change were marked with air quotes, indicating skepticism or dismissal of the concept.
The tension at the dinner escalated when it became apparent that some guests were prepared to counter MAGA-aligned views with facts, leading those who held these views to shy away from further political discussion. They expressed a preference to avoid the topic, realizing they could be challenged on their points.
Kosinski’s recounting of the dinner illustrates a broader societal issue where people often live within their own information silos, only interacting with like-minded individuals. This lack of open discussion among friends and neighbors about critical issues, she argued, is detrimental to understanding and addressing the complexities of reality.
This encounter left Kosinski deeply disturbed, prompting her to question how individuals who seem “normal” could harbor extremist beliefs. She highlighted the danger of not engaging in open dialogue, which she believes is essential for the health of any democratic society. The experience serves as a reminder of the deep political divisions that can exist beneath the surface, even among those who might otherwise seem agreeable or neutral.